The candidates' night held at the Marasco Senior Center in New Windsor was a chance for each to convince the crowd of his ability to defeat Hayworth, R-Mount Kisco, as well as prove their familiarity with the region's challenges.

"Money does not make right," said Westchester's Duane Jackson, referring to candidate Sean Patrick Maloney's considerable campaign war chest.

In February, campaign finance reports showed Maloney had outraised Hayworth by $30,000 and had raised three times more than other Democratic hopefuls, though just a fraction came from within what will become the new 18th District.

Tuxedo Park Mayor Tom Wilson took a jab directly at Maloney's personal finances as well as his current residence. Maloney said he's recently relocated to Cold Spring.

"It concerns me when they buy a third home in the district so they can run," said Wilson, referring to Maloney's summer home in Sullivan County and another residence in Manhattan.

Wilson said his work in establishing an emergency communication system in Tuxedo when he became mayor paid off after devastating storms last year. He said that contrasted with Hayworth's record on disaster relief.

Maloney touted his longtime Democratic credentials, such as working as a former aide of President Bill Clinton's and his growing union support.

He said he'd support any candidate who gets the nomination.

Wappingers Falls Mayor Matt Alexander said his experience in helping improve Wappinger's water treatment system and knowledge of the area made him a viable candidate.

He also touted his experience in the private sector.

Richard Becker, a cardiologist and Town of Cortlandt councilman, said his experience creating jobs as a private practitioner would be important for a congressman. He said constituent service would be a top priority for him if elected.

All candidates said that there was a need to represent the needs of the district over the needs of donors, special interests and the party line — something they all argued Hayworth has failed to do.